Judge Orders Full Competency Evaluation for Stabbing Defendant

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DC Superior Court Judge Robert Salerno ordered a stabbing defendant undergo a full mental competency evaluation on July 17.

William Clark, 44, is charged with two counts of assault with a dangerous weapon and two counts of carrying a dangerous weapon for his alleged involvement in a non-fatal stabbing that occurred on Sept. 5, 2023, on the 1600 block of Connecticut Avenue, NW. One individual sustained injuries during the incident. 

According to court documents, Clark parked his E-bike in front of a convenience store, where the two victims were standing. An altercation ensued as Clark said they were standing too close to the bike. He then allegedly brandished a knife, one victim managed to run away and the other sustained an injury to the left side of the abdomen.

On July 15, the Department of Behavioral Health (DBH) sent Judge Salerno a report recommending Clark undergo a full competency evaluation. At the hearing, parties agreed.

Judge Salerno ordered Clark transferred to St. Elizabeths Hospital for the psychiatric exam to be completed in 30 days.

Parties are slated to meet on Aug. 16.